Evolution results from the interaction of four factors: (1) the potential for a species to increase in number, (2) genetic variation occurring within a species due to mutations and sexual reproduction, (3) limited supply of resources needed for ...

Evolution results from the interaction of four factors: (1) the potential for a species to increase in number, (2) genetic variation occurring within a species due to mutations and sexual reproduction, (3) limited supply of resources needed for survival resulting in competition, and (4) those organisms that are better adapted for an environment survive and reproduce. Genetic information provides evidence of evolution. DNA sequences vary among species, but some similarities remain. By comparing the DNA sequences of different organisms, multiple lines of descent may be inferred. The ongoing branching into multiple lines of descent may also be derived by comparing the amino acid sequences and by examining the anatomical and embryological evidence.